Essendon Royals Announce Vince Battiato as Senior Women’s Coach for Inaugural NPLW Season
The Essendon Royals are thrilled to announce the reappointment of championship-winning coach, Vince Battiato, as the Senior Women’s coach for the club’s inaugural NPLW season.
Under Battiato’s leadership, the Royals have experienced a meteoric rise, achieving back-to-back promotions and taking the side from State League 1 to the top-flight in just two seasons.
The 2023 season was nothing short of historic for the Royals.
The team clinched the Nike FC Community Cup, reached the quarter-finals of the Nike FC Cup, and secured both the VPLW and VPLW Reserves league titles, culminating in a triumphant VPLW Finals Series win.
Battiato shared his thoughts on the upcoming season and what makes the Royals special.
“I’m thrilled with the season that was. Achieving what most people don’t get in a lifetime, and two years ahead of schedule, was enormous,” he said.
“Our initial plan was two seasons out of State 1 and two out of VPLW. Being in the NPL two years earlier than expected is a testament to our hard work. Now, it’s full steam ahead. We’re looking to make a significant impact and represent the Royals with pride.”
Battiato said that building an NPLW squad came with differences when compared to building one in the State Leagues and VPLW – where games are played with interchange and not substitutes, as well as the presence of an age-capped Under-19 supporting squad, as opposed to an open age Reserves side.
“We’ve been preparing for this, especially in the latter half of the year, by selecting a starting XI each week and getting players accustomed to playing full halves,” he said.
“It’s crucial to have players who understand their roles, whether as starters or impact players off the bench. This first season will be a platform for many to push for a starting position.”
The Royals have made a big splash in women’s football in the state and Battiato said whilst winning trophies always makes people take notice, it is the focus that the Royals place on their Women’s program as well as the culture of the playing and coaching squad that really sets the club apart.
“What sets the Royals apart is our outstanding culture, both on and off the field,” he said.
“The positive vibes around the club, amplified by the spotlight the club and our media puts on us, it helps attract many players.
“From a recruitment point of view, we always prioritise the individual over the player, ensuring they are a good fit for our ethos. If everyone is happy, you can build a strong squad with plenty of depth and everyone’s happy because you get that success along the way.”
With Battiato at the helm, the Royals are poised for an exciting and competitive season in the NPLW.
Stay tuned for updates on the club’s upcoming open training and trial sessions.
Want to join the Royals NPLW set-up in 2024? Fill out the form below to register your interest.